What Really Happened to Al on Chicago PD? The Shocking Truth Revealed

In the autumn of 2025, we can expect a comeback from the “Chicago One” franchise, encompassing shows like “Chicago Fire”, “Chicago Med”, and what will now be referred to as “Chicago PD”. This is great news for enthusiasts eagerly awaiting resolutions to previous storylines and cliffhangers. As network television competes for more viewers, the tension promises to intensify, potentially leading to more emotional departures of long-standing characters. Given the series’ reputation for gripping narratives and captivating performances, such departures are likely to leave a lasting impact on fans. The “Chicago One” franchise has consistently stood out due to its powerful storytelling and engaging cast, and when these elements collide, resulting in life-altering events for the characters, viewers often find themselves deeply moved.

As a devoted fan of Chicago PD, I can’t help but wonder about the future of my beloved characters this upcoming season. With whispers of departures swirling and hints that some old faces might reappear, it’s hard not to be intrigued by the potential shifts in the dynamic cast.

Chicago PD is aiming for longevity, which means changes are inevitable. However, there’s one absence that still lingers in my mind – Alvin Olinsky, or simply Al. It’s been a while since we last saw him on screen. But I can’t help but ask: Where did Al go? And why did the actor choose to bid farewell to this show?

Alvin Olinsky Didn’t Make It On Chicago PD

What Was Al’s Last Episode?

Alvin Olinsky made his debut with the Chicago Fire team in Season 2, Episode 9 titled ‘You Will Hurt Him,’ which served as a compelling introduction to his character. Over the years, he had significant roles in Chicago PD, making appearances in numerous episodes from 2014 up until 2024 (a total of 107 episodes). He also made guest appearances on Chicago Justice in 2017 and Chicago Med between 2016 and 2018. Interestingly, he had fewer appearances on Chicago Fire despite it being the show where he initially appeared!

Although Al’s tenure on “Chicago One” came to an end with the year 2024, it should be noted that this wasn’t a conventional departure. This was his last appearance in any of the shows, as he only made a spectral appearance in another character’s mind instead of physically returning. The reason for this is that the character Al played tragically met his end back in Season 5, Episode 22 of 2014, which left a decade-long gap between his appearances on the series.

Al’s demise was exceptionally heartbreaking due to the circumstances surrounding it. Having been wrongly imprisoned for a murder he didn’t commit, his trial was imminent, adding drama typical of this genre. The DNA found at the crime scene was allegedly his, but it was actually Hank Voight who had committed the crime. Al’s unwavering loyalty to Voight led him to withhold the truth, and tragically, an inmate within the prison stabbed him to death.

During the operation, there was hope for Al’s survival, but sadly, he died on the operating table. This event sparked a storyline where Voight became enraged, eventually tracking down the killer and ending his life in the process. This period was a somber one for the show, focusing heavily on the sorrow following Alvin’s death. His demise also caused more turmoil than typical, as the team grappled with guilt over his fate, having witnessed him tirelessly defending the system he served. It wasn’t the dignified end a hero like Al deserved, given his long tenure, and it didn’t always sit right with viewers either.

Elias Koteas Moved On From the Series

Why Did Al Leave Chicago PD?

It’s a significant setback in an actor’s career when they learn that their character, someone they’ve been associated with for a long time, is no longer part of a franchise they were connected to. Particularly since Chicago PD was set within the Chicago One universe, there was always the possibility of appearing in other series as well, given the popular crossovers within the franchise. However, actor Elias Koteas had to abandon these opportunities when he found out that Al would no longer be a part of the franchise at all. Despite this, it’s clear that he expressed interest in returning at some point, as indicated by his return in 2024. But for Al’s storyline, 2014 marked the conclusion of his character’s journey.

It’s often true that actors who’ve played significant recurring roles on long-running network TV series may find themselves ready for a change when the time is right. The schedule can be grueling and leaves little room for other projects. Additionally, actors fear being typecast, which could potentially define their entire career if they remain in one role too long. For Koteas, this role was a chance to redefine himself and play his hand as skillfully as possible. However, it’s important to note that the decision to leave wasn’t his alone.

As a devoted fan, I can share my understanding that the showrunners decided it was time for Voight to face the consequences of his past actions, and unfortunately, Al found himself in the middle of it all. This dramatic turn of events served to illustrate just how deeply Voight had been tainted, and there was no better way to emphasize this than by taking away his closest friend.

This wasn’t a decision that was set in stone from the beginning, but as the season’s narrative unfolded, it felt more and more like a natural progression. Eventually, a tough choice had to be made, and both the cast and Koteas were informed about Al’s character’s fate, leaving us all to grapple with the emotional impact of this decision.

After demonstrating true professionalism and delivering outstanding performances in his final scenes, Koteas was soon recognized for his talent. Following his stint on Chicago PD, he was cast in the sci-fi series The Silent Planet, where he played Theodore, and continued his voice acting role in American Dad. He’s set to appear in another episode soon. His upcoming projects include a new thriller titled The Block, suggesting that his busy schedule is picking up again after his 2024 appearance in the series. Since 2014, he has also starred in films like Janet Planet, The Baker and Guilty Party. However, there’s always potential for Koteas to land that next major breakthrough role.

This Is a Continuing Trend On Chicago PD

Could Al Make a Comeback?

As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I’ve noticed lately that shows like “Chicago PD” have been caught up in this ongoing trend, where it seems like many beloved series regulars are bidding farewell, either due to scheduling issues or for the sake of storytelling. This exodus leaves new characters to fill their shoes, but as more depart, the narrative becomes less captivating. The emotional ties we’ve formed with these characters over the years make it difficult to let them go completely. If every single one disappears, it feels like a significant piece of the show is missing, and the creators have to start from scratch in introducing new characters. It’s a challenging cycle that “Chicago PD” could potentially fall into.

Previously, Al made an appearance on the show, and it seems he’s eager to revisit that role. There’s a chance he might do so again, with Chicago PD employing creative storytelling methods like visions, flashbacks, and other unconventional techniques to incorporate past cast members in intriguing ways. If the series requires a ratings surge, they often resort to such tactics, but Koteas may be becoming more occupied as his career progresses.

The upcoming season of Chicago PD is likely to delve once more into harrowing events, as unresolved tensions pave the way for fresh conflicts. It’s possible that a new character might have to be written off to maintain the narrative’s pace. Characters like [Character Name] from Chicago One departed at the outset, and unfortunately, it seems unlikely that Al will reappear, given his gruesome demise. Even the power of procedural TV, which has often brought back characters through twins, clones, or even resurrections, may not be enough to bring Al back from the dead this time. Such a move might negate the impact of his initial death.

2025-06-04 04:09